Arizona Diamondbacks outfielder Lourdes Gurriel Jr. sustained a right knee injury during Monday night’s 7-5 loss to the Texas Rangers and was carted off the field,raising concerns about the severity of the injury and its impact on the team’s already challenging season.
The injury occurred in the sixth inning when Gurriel awkwardly attempted to avoid a collision with center fielder Blaze Alexander, who made a diving catch on a line drive hit by Rowdy Tellez. Gurriel remained on the ground for several minutes before being assisted onto a cart and leaving the field.
diamondbacks manager Torey Lovullo stated that Gurriel will undergo imaging on Tuesday to determine the extent of the damage. “There’s no diagnosis right now — he’s set up for imaging tomorrow,” lovullo said. “Say some prayers for him tonight. It’s a situation where we’re going to hope for the best, but I don’t think it looks great.”
Prior to the injury,Gurriel was batting .249 with 19 home runs and 80 RBIs this season. His absence would be a important blow to the Diamondbacks’ lineup, particularly as they navigate a season marked by numerous injuries to key players.
Adding to the team’s woes, ace pitcher Corbin Burnes, along with relievers Justin Martinez and A.J. Puk, have already been ruled out for the remainder of the season following elbow surgery. Alexander, meanwhile, was making his debut start in center field for the Diamondbacks.
